Integrisport 3.0 Closing Conference

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The Hague, the Netherlands — The IntegriSport 3.0 project, implemented from 2023 to 2024, concluded with a successful closing conference that gathered representatives of 10 international entities, national and international stakeholders from 24 countries on 4 continents, including law enforcement and judiciary authorities of 15 countries, representatives of the European Union, Europol, Eurojust, Interpol, the International Olympic Committee, Riot Games and other distinguished organizations together with the project partners, to conclude the project and have comprehensive discussions on the protection of sports and esports from manipulation and crimes.

The project aimed to enhance the awareness of law enforcement and judiciaries on investigation and prosecution of crimes related to sports and esports manipulation through targeted training and collaboration among law enforcement, judicial authorities, and key sports stakeholders.

Achievements of the IntegriSport Initiative

Since its inception, the IntegriSport initiative has been instrumental in fighting sports manipulation and crime in sport and esports, involving over 25 partner organizations, and provided for more than 120 law enforcement and judicial bodies from 16 countries in the last 6 years. Led by the developer of the IntergiSport concept, CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the program has provided essential training and fostered collaboration across borders to strengthen the fight against sports and esports-related crimes.

The EU-funded IntegriSport 3.0 continued this mission, with significant contributions from the partners of the project, CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity (the coordinator and content provider), Austria's Play Fair Code, the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria, the Greek Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports, the Estonian Center for Integrity in Sports (ESTCIS), the Romanian National Agency for  Sports, and the Spanish National Police. Additionally, IntegriSport 3.0 has benefitted from the involvement of prominent organizations like the National Institute of Physical Education of Catalonia (INEFC), United Lotteries for Integrity in Sports (ULIS), and FIFPro, our supporting organization, which have all contributed to strengthening sports integrity frameworks across Europe.

Impact across partner countries

Throughout its three editions, CSCF and its partners have worked to protect sports integrity by educating and building cooperation between law enforcement, judicial authorities, ministries, sports and esports federations. Besides the IntegriSport 3.0 partner organizations, the project countries have seen participation from law enforcement, judiciaries, ministries, sports and esports federations, players' unions, and the national betting industry. Europol, Interpol, the Council of Europe, the International Olympic Committee, and the Maltese Police Force also provided their expertise. This ongoing effort has raised awareness and provided practical tools to combat manipulation in both traditional sports and esports. It also has empowered law enforcement and judiciaries in the partner countries and has encouraged them to engage with their own national stakeholders.

IntegriSport 3.0 Impact and Results

-In Austria, the project strengthened collaboration with the Criminal Intelligence Service (BKA) and fostered deeper cooperation with prosecutors and judges, raising awareness of sports manipulation among fraud and organized crime units nationwide.

-In Bulgaria, the project introduced sports integrity education to police students for the first time, while fostering ongoing discussions about ratifying the Macolin Convention and reorganizing the National Platform against sports manipulation.

-In Estonia, valuable insights gained from Spanish experts led to discussions about creating a specialized police unit for sports corruption at the Estonian Police. The project also connected the Estonian esports community with stakeholders, leading to new collaborations and inclusion in international efforts.

-In Greece, the project marked the first awareness-raising session involving a diverse range of stakeholders, leading to greater inclusion of player representation in the National Platform of Greece against sports manipulation. Esports manipulation also became a key focus, with stakeholders supporting its formal inclusion under the Macolin Convention.

-In Romania, authorities committed to implementing the knowledge gained through IntegriSport to combat sports-related corruption.

-In Spain, there was a significant improvement in monitoring and detection systems, with strengthened communication between regulatory bodies, betting operators, and sports entities. This resulted in enhanced integrity across the sector and public confidence in the fairness of sports competitions.

-At the policy-making level, this year brought some significant successes amongst our partner countries and partners: Romania has decided to sign the Council of Europe Macolin Convention, whereas Spain has ratified this very important legal instrument.

Closing Conference Highlights

The closing conference, held on the 11th of November, was marked by a series of engaging presentations and discussions. The agenda featured the partner organizations of the project sharing insights on the project’s implementation and its impact across the 6 partner countries and on the work of the 3 international partner organizations by

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity,

Play Fair Code,

The Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria,

The Greek Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports,

The Estonian Center for Integrity in Sports (ESTCIS),

The Romanian National Agency for Sports,

The Spanish National Police,

The National Institute of Physical Education of Catalonia (INEFC), and

The United Lotteries for Integrity in Sports (ULIS).

The biggest players' representation of the world and supporting partner of IntegriSport programs, FIFPRO highlighted the importance of protecting athletes, showcasing a case study that exemplified best practices in addressing manipulation and corruption.

After a very thorough introduction of case studies on sport manipulation investigation by the Police authorities of Greece and Spain, dynamic panel discussions were held. The panel discussions were dedicated to giving knowledge, thoughts, and support for law enforcement and judiciary to get more insight on the phenomenon of sports manipulation and how they would be able to fight effectively against criminals infiltrating sports and esports all over the world.

The first panel focused on the intersection of sports and integrity, featuring industry experts from the International Olympic Committee, FIFPRO, Play Fair Code, and ULIS, with Europol and CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity as moderators. The discussion highlighted the importance of ethical standards and accountability within sports organizations and explored the important role of law enforcement and judiciary bodies in protecting sports organizations and athletes, fostering a fair and transparent sporting environment.

The second panel addressed the growing field of esports, featuring insights from industry experts at Riot Games, Interpol, and Postimees Grupp, with CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity as moderator. This session explored the unique challenges and opportunities for maintaining integrity within this rapidly evolving sector. Experts discussed the need for robust frameworks to protect players and ensure fair competition, emphasizing the critical role of law enforcement and judicial bodies in this journey, as well as the importance of educating these stakeholders to deepen their understanding of issues in esports.

Throughout the conference, participants engaged in fruitful conversations, exchanging ideas and strategies for future collaboration. The session proved to be fostering connections among stakeholders committed to promoting integrity in sports.

During the event, the 8 partners of IntegriSport 3.0 announced their common statements on protecting sport and esports and supporting law enforcement and judiciaries.

For media inquiries, please contact: Integrisport3.admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

IntegriSport 3.0 Peer-to-Peer Webinar unites 17 Countries in the fight against sports manipulation

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[10/09/2024 - Online] – As part of the IntegriSport 3.0 initiative, supporting law enforcement and judiciaries in combating sports and esports manipulation and related crimes, CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity hosted an IntegriSport 3.0 Peer-to-Peer webinar, bringing together representatives from 17 countries and 21 law enforcement and judiciary bodies across two continents including Austria, Chile, Cyprus, Ecuador, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia and Spain.

As panel members, representatives of Interpol and Europol, Austrian Federal Police, Hellenic Police, ULIS and the Bulgarian Esports Federation and CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity provided valuable insights into police cooperation and best practices in investigative law enforcement measures.

The webinar addressed three key topics critical to protecting sports integrity:

    1.     Investigations into sports manipulation linked to the Asian betting market.

    2.     The role of intelligence and evidence in uncovering sports manipulation.

    3.     Crimes in esports and the role of law enforcement in addressing them.


Key discussions

The highly interactive webinar provided participants with fresh perspectives on a range of pressing issues, including:

  • Asian betting market: Attendees explored the complexities of investigating sports manipulation cases involving this market, sharing experiences and strategies for addressing these challenges.
  • Whistleblower protection: The group discussed various approaches to protecting whistleblowers, considering both the sports integrity and law enforcement perspectives.
  • Use of evidence in investigations: Participants focused on the effective use of intelligence and evidence in legal proceedings to combat sports- and esports-related crimes.
  • Esports and financial crimes: The webinar highlighted how in-game currencies are increasingly being exploited for financial crimes like money laundering, stressing the need for stronger cooperation among law enforcement agencies in this rapidly evolving field.


Looking forward

Building on the success of this event, CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity and the project partners look forward to the upcoming closing conference of IntegriSport 3.0, (11/11/2024 Europol HQ - the Hague) which will further these important discussions and strengthen global efforts to combat sports and esports manipulation and related crimes. 

Recognizing that there is much more to discuss on the topic of crime in sports, we are committed to organizing additional webinars to explore these issues further. Stay tuned for future events.

 

Integrisport 3.0 Project 

IntegriSport 3.0 aims to improve the investigation and prosecution of sports manipulation-related crimes by training law enforcement, judicial authorities, and key stakeholders on sports manipulation, corruption, and related criminal activities. The project brings together a range of partner organizations to support this mission:

Coordinator: CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity

Country partners organisations: Play Fair Code (Austria), Estonian Center for Integrity in Sports (ESTCIS), Bulgarian Ministry of Youth and Sports, Greek Ministry of Culture and Sport, Romanian Ministry of Sport, and Spanish National Police.

Partner organisations: Institut Nacional d’Educació Física de Catalunya (INEFC, Spain) and United Lotteries for Integrity in Sports (ULIS).

Supporting organisations: FIFPRO.

 

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the driving force behind this unique initiative is dedicated to combating sports manipulation, corruption, and related criminal activities through education, awareness, and collaboration. Working closely with law enforcement agencies, judicial authorities, ministries and sport federations around the world, CSCF aims to enhance the efficiency of investigations and prosecutions concerning sports manipulation. By fostering collaboration among diverse actors, CSCF is at the forefront of promoting integrity, transparency, and fairness in the sports sector.

For more information on upcoming events and initiatives, please visit www.cscfsport.com or follow us on social media. 

 

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Integriball 2.0 Completes Fact-Finding Missions in Estonia, Romania, and Georgia to Safeguard Football Integrity!

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The Integriball program, dedicated to promoting integrity and inclusivity within football, has successfully completed its fact-finding missions in Estonia, Romania, and Georgia. These missions, conducted in close collaboration with the respective football federations of each country and supported by partner organizations United Lotteries for Integrity in Sports (ULIS) and Berkeley Global Society (BGS), mark a significant milestone in the initiative's ongoing efforts to safeguard the integrity of the sport.

About the Fact-Finding Missions

Led by the CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity and supported by UEFA, the Integriball program aims to develop programs focused on safeguarding, combating match-fixing, and protecting whistleblowers across multiple countries. The fact-finding missions in Estonia, Romania, and Georgia were crucial steps in assessing the current level of knowledge and understanding within the football communities of these nations.

·        In Estonia, the mission was hosted by the Estonian Football Association (Eesti Jalgpalli Liit), where stakeholders engaged in comprehensive discussions and assessments to identify areas of improvement and strategies for enhancing integrity measures within the sport. "We are grateful for the opportunity to participate in this vital initiative and look forward to continuing our partnership with CSCF in creating a safer and more ethical environment for football in Estonia," said a representative from EJL.

·        Similarly, in Romania, the Federatia Romana de Fotbal facilitated productive discussions and exchanges, allowing for a thorough examination of the existing landscape and the formulation of targeted interventions to address any identified challenges. "As representatives of the Federatia Romana de Fotbal, we are honored to collaborate with CSCF and other stakeholders in this important endeavor. Together, we are working towards a future where integrity is paramount in Romanian football," stated a representative from FRF.

·       In Georgia, the Georgian Football Federation played a pivotal role in coordinating the fact-finding mission, fostering an environment conducive to open dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders. "This collaborative effort has been instrumental in advancing integrity within football, and we are thankful for the opportunity to be part of such an impactful initiative. We look forward to furthering our partnership with all stakeholders to uphold the values of integrity and inclusivity in Georgian football," expressed a representative from GFF.

Throughout these missions, the Integriball program underscored its commitment to protecting football, particularly its most vulnerable groups, by ensuring that integrity remains a top priority in the development and governance of the sport. "I am thrilled to witness the impactful outcomes of the Integriball program. Through collaborative efforts with our esteemed partners and the dedicated football federations of Estonia, Romania, and Georgia, we have successfully completed fact-finding missions aimed at enhancing integrity within football," said Norbert Rubicsek, director at CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity. "These missions have provided invaluable insights that will inform future initiatives and reinforce our commitment to promoting integrity and inclusivity within the sport. I extend my sincere gratitude to all involved for their unwavering dedication and look forward to the continued success and impact of the Integriball program."

About CSCF

The CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity is an organization committed to enhancing integrity, transparency, and ethics in sports across the globe. We offer education, advice, and risk management support to sports organizations, law enforcement, governmental bodies, and the betting industry, addressing key ethical and integrity challenges. As Integriball 2.0 coordinators and a premier content provider, we drive this unique initiative, committed to the cause of sports integrity.

About Integriball 2.0 Country Partners

·        Eesti Jalgpalli Liit (EJL): EJL, or the Estonian Football Association, is the governing body for football in Estonia. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, EJL represents the importance of integrity in sports governance at a national level. By ensuring fair play, transparency, and ethical conduct within Estonian football, EJL contributes to fostering integrity both on and off the field.

·        Georgian Football Federation (GFF): GFF serves as the governing body for football in Georgia. Through its involvement in Integriball 2.0, GFF emphasizes the significance of integrity in sports development within the country. By promoting integrity in football administration, player conduct, and fan engagement, GFF plays a crucial role in upholding the values of fairness and honesty in Georgian football.

·        Federatia Romana De Fotbal (FRF): FRF, or the Romanian Football Federation, is responsible for overseeing football activities in Romania. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, FRF underscores the importance of integrity in football governance and competition. FRF's commitment to combating corruption, match-fixing, and other integrity-related issues within Romanian football highlights its dedication to preserving the sport's credibility and ethical standards.

Integriball 2.0's ambition goes beyond national borders, with support from UEFA and involvement across three countries, including Estonia, Georgia, and Romania. By disseminating vital knowledge and resources, the project endeavors to create a more ethically sound and secure environment for football participation, ensuring accessibility and empowerment for all.

For further information about Integriball 2.0 and opportunities for involvement, please contact: Integriball2.admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Successful Integrisport 3.0 awareness raising practical session in Romania marks an important conclusion

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Bucharest, Romania - April 12, 2024 - Integrisport 3.0, an innovative project aimed at providing awareness and training to law enforcement agencies, judicial authorities, and other stakeholders on all aspects of sports and esports manipulations and crimes in sports, has concluded its series of awareness-raising practical sessions with a remarkable event in Romania.

About the event

In a significant step towards combating manipulation and criminality in sports, Romania hosted the 6th and last Awareness Raising Practical Session under Integrisport 3.0 frame. Co-organized by the Agenția Națională pentru Sport and CSCF Sport Integrity Group, the event focused on bolstering capabilities across law enforcement, judiciary, sports organizations, and ministries to protect sports integrity across Romania.

 

Among the 100 participants were representatives from various national and international organizations involved in sport, such as Prosecutor's Office of the High Court of Cassation and Justice, the Romanian Football Federation, the Romanian Basketball Federation, the Research and Crime Prevention Institute of the General Inspectorate of the Romanian Police, the Association of Amateur and Nonamateur Footballers (AFAN), National Anti-Doping Agency, Interpol, Europol, FIFPro, ULIS, PlayFairCode, Malta Police Force and more. The event opened by Elisabeta Lipă, president of the National Agency for Sport, Romania, Oana Țoiu, president of the Youth and Sports Committee in the Chamber of Deputies, Mihai Covaliu president of the Romanian Olympic and Sports Committee and Norbert Rubicsek, director CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, provided a unique opportunity for dialogue and collaboration among these diverse stakeholders, fostering a common understanding and vision for promoting integrity in sport.

"During our sessions in Romania and the successful conclusion of our awareness series, we've reached a significant milestone in our commitment to sports integrity," said Norbert Rubicsek, director at CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity in his conclusion. "The vivid discussion by Romanian authorities on issues and solutions gives the impression that significant steps are already underway in Romania's fight against sports manipulation”.

"We are immensely proud of the impact achieved through the awareness raising practical session in Romania. It underscores our steadfast commitment to fostering integrity and transparency in sports. Additionally, it has provided us with valuable insights into new directions for supporting stakeholders and the imperative to strengthen national cooperation in combating manipulation in sport. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all involved, especially the coordinator, CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity and look forward to continuing our efforts together in creating a fair and ethical sporting environment." said Elisabeta Lipă, president of the Agenția Națională pentru Sport.

Key conclusions

 

1. Understanding the complexity of challenges: Participants gained insight into the diverse challenges associated with sports manipulation and crimes within the sports realm. Recognizing these complexities enables stakeholders to develop targeted strategies for effective solutions.

 

2. Importance of collaborative solutions: Collaboration with law enforcement and judiciary representatives in the sports industry fosters solidarity and amplifies the impact of initiatives. By sharing best practices, stakeholders identify innovative approaches to integrity issues for more robust solutions.

 

3. Empowerment for change: The vivid dialogues among the participants about possible procedures, necessary cooperation, and actions to be taken demonstrated dedication and engagement from all the different stakeholders in combating the phenomenon.

 

4. Commitment to sustained action: Stakeholders pledged to maintain ongoing dialogue and action in promoting sports integrity. In light of this commitment, they have prepared a joint statement, yet to be signed, that could serve as the foundation for these future initiatives aimed at enhancing integrity in sports.


About CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity:

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the driving force behind this unique initiative, is a leader in promoting fairness and ethics in the sporting world. Established to address integrity challenges such as manipulation, safeguarding issues, and whistleblowing, our mission is to cultivate a culture of transparency and honesty. We work closely with a diverse range of partners, including sports organizations, law enforcement, judiciaries, ministries, and the betting sector, to deliver outstanding education, advice, and risk management strategies. Our partnerships extend across these critical sectors to provide comprehensive support and solutions.


Our global initiatives underscore the importance of collective efforts in maintaining sports integrity, ensuring a significant and positive impact on the sports community. Through advising, training, and policy-making, we tailor solutions to protect and support individuals across the spectrum, from those facing specific risks to the wider community, reinforcing sports as a force for good. CSCF is dedicated to a future where sports worldwide adhere to the highest ethical standards.

About Agenția Națională pentru Sport:

 

Agenția Națională pentru Sport is the leading governmental agency dedicated to promoting and regulating sport activities in Romania. With a mandate to enhance sport development, ensure fair play, and safeguard the integrity of sporting competitions, the agency plays a crucial role in advancing the sport industry's interests. As the country partner for the Integrisport 3.0 awareness raising practical session in Romania, Agenția Națională pentru Sport provided invaluable support and expertise, contributing to the event's success, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.


Project next steps

With the successful conclusion of the awareness raising practical session in Romania, Integrisport 3.0 is poised for its next exciting step: a peer-to-peer webinar for law enforcement and judiciaries that will further foster collaboration and continuous learning among project participants. This webinar will provide an additional opportunity to reflect on the topics discussed during the awareness raising practical session and further explore best practices to fight against sport manipulation.

 

Additionally, after the peer-to-peer webinar, the closing conference of the Integrisport 3.0 project will take place as the next significant event in the project's timeline. Scheduled for the 7th of November, this conference will reflect on the achievements and lessons learned during this journey and discuss future strategies for upholding integrity and fairness in sports. While the program may be concluding, we will continue our efforts to uphold integrity in sports and fight against sport manipulation.

 

For more information about Integrisport 3.0 and its future activities, please visit the project's official website at https://foundation.cscfsport.com/integrisport-3-0/ 

For media inquiries, please contact: Integrisport3.admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Launching Integriball 2.0: Advancing Football education in integrity for Youth and Women

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Brussels, March 13, 2024 - Building upon the success of the Integriball Erasmus+ project, the CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity proudly announces the rollout of Integriball 2.0. Today marks a significant milestone as partners of the project convene in Brussels to officially launch this highly anticipated initiative. This evolution reflects our ongoing dedication to delivering vital education and nurturing integrity among young and female football players.

The kickoff meeting of Integriball 2.0 marked a pivotal moment as key partners of the project came together to strategize and align their efforts. Discussions ranged from outlining the project's overarching goals to delineating specific action plans and timelines. Through open dialogue and shared vision, the partners reaffirmed their commitment to the project's mission, setting a solid foundation for future collaboration and impact.


About the project


This initiative aims to tackle crucial sports integrity issues, including the prevention of match-fixing, ensuring player safety through safeguarding measures, and promoting the significance of whistleblowing. Over the next two years, our objective is to enhance the educational resources available to federations and provide direct training to players in three countries: Estonia, Georgia, and Romania.


Partners of Integriball 2.0 include the coordinator and content expert CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the country partners, Eesti Jalgpalli LIIT (EJL), The Georgian Football Federation (GFF), and Federatia Romana De Fotbal (FRF), the partner organizations Berkeley Global Society (BGS), and United Lotteries for Integrity in Sports (ULIS) and the supporting partner UEFA. This collaborative partnership fortifies the initiative, laying a strong foundation for its success.


Integriball 2.0 seeks to evaluate the level of knowledge on match-fixing, safeguarding, and whistleblowing protocols. Based on the assessment results, customized education programs will be developed and distributed in participating countries. The project's primary aim is to widely disseminate essential knowledge on countering sports manipulation, safeguarding practices, and whistleblowing mechanisms, ensuring accessibility for youth and female players alike. Through targeted education and empowerment initiatives, our goal is to foster a sporting environment that prioritizes integrity and inclusivity.


Since its inception, the program has made significant strides within football communities across eight countries: Belgium, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Greece, Malta and now Estonia, Georgia and Romania paving the way for a more secure, inclusive, and ethically-driven sports landscape.


“With Integriball 2.0, we continue our efforts to promote integrity within football, reaching out to young and female players with essential education on the matter," stated Norbert Rubicsek, Director at CSCF. "We are dedicated to making a difference and look forward to the advancements this initiative will bring.”


About CSCF


The CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity is an organization committed to enhancing integrity, transparency, and ethics in sports across the globe. We offer education, advice, and risk management support to sports organizations, law enforcement, governmental bodies, and the betting industry, addressing key ethical and integrity challenges.

As Integriball 2.0 coordinators and a premier content provider, we drive this unique initiative, committed to the cause of sports integrity.


About Integriball 2.0 partners


Eesti Jalgpalli LIIT (EJL): EJL, or the Estonian Football Association, is the governing body for football in Estonia. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, EJL represents the importance of integrity in sports governance at a national level. By ensuring fair play, transparency, and ethical conduct within Estonian football, EJL contributes to fostering integrity both on and off the field.


The Georgian Football Federation (GFF): GFF serves as the governing body for football in Georgia. Through its involvement in Integriball 2.0, GFF emphasizes the significance of integrity in sports development within the country. By promoting integrity in football administration, player conduct, and fan engagement, GFF plays a crucial role in upholding the values of fairness and honesty in Georgian football.


Federatia Romana De Fotbal (FRF): FRF, or the Romanian Football Federation, is responsible for overseeing football activities in Romania. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, FRF underscores the importance of integrity in football governance and competition. FRF's commitment to combating corruption, match-fixing, and other integrity-related issues within Romanian football highlights its dedication to preserving the sport's credibility and ethical standards.


Berkeley Global Society (BGS): BGS is an organization focused on global issues, including integrity in sports. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, BGS brings expertise in ethical leadership, anti-corruption measures, and transparency initiatives. By collaborating with football federations and other stakeholders, BGS contributes to advancing integrity principles and best practices in the sports industry worldwide.


United Lotteries for Integrity in Sports (ULIS): ULIS is dedicated to promoting integrity and fair play in sports through collaboration with lottery organizations. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, ULIS emphasizes the role of sports betting integrity in maintaining the credibility of football competitions. By implementing measures to prevent match manipulation and illegal betting activities, ULIS helps safeguard the integrity of football and protects the interests of fans, athletes, and stakeholders.



For further information about Integriball 2.0 and opportunities for involvement, please contact: Integriball2.admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity and Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria jointly hosted a landmark conference on combating sport and esport crimes in Sofia.

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Sofia, Bulgaria – March 6th and 7th, 2024 – In a significant step towards combating manipulation and criminality in sports and esports, Bulgaria hosted the 5th Awareness Raising Practical Session under Integrisport 3.0 frame. Co-organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria and CSCF Sport Integrity Group, the event focused on bolstering capabilities across law enforcement, judiciary, sports organizations, and ministries to protect sports integrity across Bulgaria.

About the Integrisport Project

Integrisport 3.0 is a project established to provide theoretical and practical support for law enforcement and judiciaries to tackle sport manipulation and crimes in sports in the six program countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, Greece, Romania, and Spain, co-financed by the European Union.


About the event

The Awareness Raising Practical Sessions was inaugurated by Professor Daniela Dasheva, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, and Mr. Hristo Stefanov, Deputy Minister of Interior, highlighting the government's commitment to eradicating corruption in sports and providing a crucial support for propelling the project forward. They expressed the importance of educating law enforcement officials and warmly embraced Integrisport 3.0 project, which is dedicated to addressing this critical issue.

The event has witnessed an unprecedented level of participation from a diverse group of stakeholders, drawing 110 attendees that included over 70 individuals from different departments of the National Police and the Prosecution Office. Noteworthy among these were representatives from various sports federations—such as the National Football Federation, the National Basketball Federation, the National Tennis Federation, the Bulgarian Esport Federation, and the Bulgarian Olympic Committee —as well as members from relevant ministries and regulatory authorities. High-level representatives and operational staff from these entities have convened to deliberate on strategies for maintaining the integrity of sports and esports, addressing the multifaceted challenges these fields face.

The CSCF content experts, along with those from our project partners Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria, ULIS, Play Fair Code, and our supporting partner FIFPRO, have provided invaluable insights during the event sessions. Their expertise, combined with the contributions of the Maltese Police Force and international bodies such as Europol and Interpol, has enhanced the collaborative efforts to effectively address the complexities of combating crime in both sports and esports.


The event was attended by students from the Bulgarian Police Academy. These active students not only contributed to the discussions but, by learning about the topics the event offered, ensured the sustainability of the knowledge of the future Bulgarian Police gained in the topic.

After the conference, a side event took place within the framework of the Integrisport 3.0 project, where members of the Bulgarian National Platform and CSCF met to discuss the possible reactivation of the national platform and further building its foundations. The participating members, including the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the National Police, the National Revenue Office, and the Prosecution Service, reported positively on the next steps for activating the platform.

“To the young sports hopefuls and esteemed educators from the National Academy of Sciences, I emphasize a fundamental truth: while results undoubtedly hold significance in the realm of sports, let us not forget that true victory is forged through the crucible of relentless dedication and unwavering effort. Success is not merely an outcome but a journey, where hard work becomes the steadfast companion on the path to greatness." - Prof. Dasheva, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria.

Hristo Stefanov, Deputy Minister of Interior noted that "We accept sports as a challenge, spirit and strength, as an alternative for our children to have a cleaner and better environment in which to build themselves. But the coin has two sides, and sometimes sport, as a fair game, faces the temptation to manipulate the results. Then, in the style of sports terminology, the game is transferred to the field of law enforcement authorities, who are required to find the truth, so that the main idea of fair play can be fulfilled,"

Norbert Rubicsek, CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity ‘s Director, shared his insights, stating, “Within the context of the Integrisport 3.0 project, our aim extends beyond mere acknowledgment of these issues; it is about fostering a comprehensive understanding and actionable strategies. By convening representatives from various sectors, including law enforcement agencies, judiciaries, ministries, sports federations, and other essential stakeholders, we create a forum for robust dialogue and knowledge exchange. Through these exchanges, we illuminate the multifaceted nature of sports manipulation and crime in sports and underscore the urgent need for coordinated action. The active involvement of ministers and stakeholders is pivotal in amplifying awareness on crime in sports, sports manipulation, and other integrity threats. Together, we are driving crucial conversations and collaborative actions to safeguard the purity of sports and esports."

This conference served as a crucial platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and strategic planning in the battle against corruption and manipulation within the realm of sports and esports. By bringing together experts and stakeholders from various sectors, CSCF and Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria are setting a new standard for collaborative efforts in safeguarding the integrity of sports.

About CSCF

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the driving strength behind this unique initiative, has consistently championed the cause of sports integrity. CSCF boasts its strength in facilitating the creation of opportunities in sports, for effective and innovative programs and partnerships. CSCF partners with organizations around the world to provide complex and high-quality education and training to sport organizations, and law enforcement, judiciaries, ministries, and other such transnational organizations on multiple integrity issues, as well as on effective investigations, whistle blowing systems etc. Our commitment to this noble effort acknowledges the importance of collective action to effectively combat manipulation within the world of sports around the world.

About Ministry of Youth and Sport of Bulgaria

The Ministry of Youth and Sports implements the unified state policy in the field of youth, sports and social tourism. Since its establishment, the ministry has played a fundamental role in the growth and promotion of sports in Bulgaria, as well as in creating opportunities for youth in various areas of society. The Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria has made numerous significant contributions to the development of the sports industry in the country. This includes implementing programs and policies aimed at improving sports infrastructure, supporting talented athletes, and promoting sports participation across all age groups and demographics.

For media inquiries, please contact: Integrisport3.admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

IntegriSport 3.0: Advancing Sports Integrity Across Europe – CSCF Foundation Highlights Progress and Strategy Following Interim Meeting

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[Barcelona, Date] - The CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity is proud to announce significant progress and strategic plans following the project's recent interim meeting. All country partners, including Play Fair Code (Austria), the Greek Ministry of Culture and Sports, the National Police of Spain, the Estonian Center for Integrity in Sports (ESTCIS), National Agency for Sports of Romania, and the Bulgarian Ministry of Youth and Sports, gathered to evaluate the project and discuss its progress.


Integrisport 3.0 is a project established to provide theoretical and practical support for law enforcement and judiciaries in the six program countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, Greece, Romania, and Spain, co-financed by the European Union.

Over the past year, IntegriSport 3.0, in coordination with CSCF, has successfully conducted four pivotal awareness-raising sessions in Greece, Spain, Austria, and Estonia. These sessions convened diverse stakeholders, including law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and representatives from sports, esports, betting industries, ministries, and international authorities such as FIFPRO, Interpol, Europol, UEFA, and the International Olympic Committee.

During the recent interim meeting, the discussion delved into "good practices" and "lessons learned" from previous sessions and other activities undertaken by the project and also revolved around the upcoming awareness sessions scheduled in Bulgaria and Romania. The focus remains on engaging with key stakeholders to fortify integrity in sports and esports, targeting law enforcement, judiciaries, and prominent figures within the sports and esports community.

Looking ahead, IntegriSport 3.0 anticipates hosting a pivotal webinar in September, tailored for the law enforcement and judiciary community, culminating in a grand closing event slated for November.

Norbert Rubicsek, CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity's representative, expressed optimism about the project's trajectory, stating, "As the coordinator of IntegriSport 3.0, CSCF is proud of the progress we have made in our first year. Our collaborative efforts have underscored the importance of addressing sports manipulation and crime from a multidisciplinary perspective. We are committed to driving impactful change and fostering trust in sports and esports."

After the interim meeting, representatives from CSCF and INEFC met with officers of MOSSOS, highlighting IntegriSport 3.0's scope and showcasing its objectives and potential in supporting MOSSOS's efforts in combating sports manipulation and crime in sports and esports.

As IntegriSport 3.0 continues its journey, stakeholders are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates and opportunities to contribute to the project's mission!

For media inquiries, please contact: admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity and ESTCIS Estonian Centre of Integrity in Sports Co-host Successful Awareness Session in Tallinn on Sport Integrity

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The Integrisport 3.0 Project Continues to Make Strides in Educating Law Enforcement and Judiciary on Combating Sport Manipulation


Tallinn, Estonia, 8th of February – The latest awareness-raising session under the Integrisport 3.0 project was successfully held in Tallinn, Estonia, on the 7th and 8th of February. This significant event was co-hosted by CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the coordinator, and content expert of the Integrisport 3.0 project, and the ESTCIS Estonian Centre of Integrity in Sports, underscoring the project's ongoing commitment to combating sports manipulation and crime in sports and esports.

"Our aim with the awareness-raising session in Estonia was to convey a clear message to all stakeholders: the threat of manipulation in both traditional sports and esports is a pressing challenge that requires deeper understanding and collective action. Additionally, our efforts focused on bridging the gap between law enforcement and the esports sector, highlighting specific vulnerabilities, and emphasizing the critical support needed to uphold the integrity of sports,” said Norbert Rubicsek, director at CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity. "The active participation from various organizations on integrity issues was heartening. We are confident that this session has substantially strengthened the stakeholders' approach to combating sports crime, especially within the rapidly evolving esports landscape."


Integrisport 3.0 is a project established to provide theoretical and practical support for law enforcement and judiciaries in the six program countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, Greece, Romania, and Spain, co-financed by the European Union. The inaugural awareness-raising practical session marked the commencement of this project and the 17th edition of the successful Integrisport program, reaching nearly two-thirds of EU countries' law enforcement and judiciaries in the last 4,5 years.

This time, over 45 participants from 25 organizations in Estonia participated in the conference and engaged in presentations, interventions, and panel discussions. The participants were introduced to different aspects of sport manipulation and crime in sports from various angles, ranging from policy-making to law enforcement issues. Discussions encompassed both traditional sports and esports, reflecting the evolving nature of integrity challenges in both domains. Representatives from national law enforcement, ministries, betting organizations, and sports organizations from football, handball, tennis, table tennis, wrestling, the National Olympic Committee attended. Partners of Integrisport 3.0, like the Spanish National Police, ULIS, the supporting partner FiFpro and the International Olympic Committee highlighted the session's diverse and inclusive approach.

"It is very important for ESTCIS, that the awareness-raising session gave us the chance to include esport community and its leaders in our discussions and in the future we can find the ways together as partners to make our youth understand better about the values of fair sport and keep them away from the evil side of sport," added Remo Perli, chief investigative officer from ESTCIS. "Also it is very important to move forward with the amendment of Estonian Penal code. It was pointed out by many experts in the session, that the special provision for sports manipulation is necessary."


CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the driving force behind this unique initiative, has consistently worked hard to protect the cause of sports integrity. Boasting strengths in creating opportunities in sports, CSCF excels in facilitating effective and innovative programs and partnerships. CSCF partners with organizations worldwide, providing complex and high-quality education and training to sports organizations, law enforcement, judiciaries, ministries, and other transnational bodies. Our focus spans multiple integrity issues, notably sport manipulation and safeguarding, along with effective investigations, whistleblower systems, and risk management.Our commitment to this noble cause acknowledges the importance of collective action in effectively safeguarding sports integrity globally. We are dedicated to making a significant impact in the world of sports.

As the primary stakeholder for sports integrity in Estonia, the Estonian Centre of Integrity in Sports (ESTCIS) holds a crucial position in safeguarding the integrity of sports within the country. Serving as the country partner for IntegriSport 3.0 in Estonia, ESTCIS plays a central role in promoting ethical practices and combating sports-related corruption and manipulation. Leveraging its expertise and resources, ESTCIS works tirelessly to implement rigorous doping control measures, provide anti-doping education, and address various integrity issues such as match-fixing prevention, abuse prevention, and spectator safety. Through its proactive efforts, ESTCIS contributes significantly to maintaining the integrity and fairness of sports in Estonia and beyond.

The Integrisport 3.0 project continues to lead in raising awareness and fostering collaboration against sports manipulation and crime in sports and esports. Its comprehensive educational approach has received widespread acclaim.

The next awareness-raising session will be organized in Bulgaria on 6-7 March. For more information about the Integrisport 3.0 project and future sessions, please visit foundation.cscfsport.com/integrisport-3-0/

For media inquiries, please contact: admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

IACA and CSCF Sport Integrity Group Announce New Partnership on Promoting Integrity in Sport

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On 2 Nov 2023, the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) and Counter Sport Corruption Foundation (CSCF) Sport Integrity Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing the framework for both institutions to cooperate promoting integrity and anti-corruption compliance in sport.

Speaking on the new partnership, Mr. Jaroslaw Pietrusiewicz, Officer-in-Charge of the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) stated:

“IACA is willing to join forces with the international sport community and share its knowledge and expertise in anti-corruption and compliance to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of integrity and compliance programmes in countries and sports organizations. We want to involve various stakeholders to deliver anti-corruption education and equip our partners with the needed tools to eliminate corruption in sport. We are looking forward to developing such activities with CSCF”.

 

Mr. Norbert Rubicsek, Director at CSCF – Sport Integrity Group gave remarks during the announcement of this new partnership and stated:

“As the growing number of alarming cases reveals, the realm of sports is increasingly being compromised by wrongdoers. From the highest governing bodies to local clubs, there's an urgent need to fortify against such infiltration. We at CSCF Sport Integrity Group are dedicated to empowering these entities, not just in safeguarding themselves, but in actively standing up against these malicious actors.

Our partnership with IACA brings forth a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, offering a robust set of tools and educational resources designed to strengthen regulations and policies. This collaboration is a significant step towards eradicating bad practices and restoring integrity within the sports domain.”

The promotion of integrity, anti-corruption and compliance in sport has become one of the priorities in the international anti-corruption agenda. In the UNGASS Political Declaration “Our common commitment to effectively addressing challenges and implementing measures to prevent and combat corruption and strengthen international cooperation”, states declared safeguarding sport from corruption as one of their goals. Also, the G20 put this theme on its agenda.

In 2023, IACA started a new research project on integrity and anti-corruption compliance in sport. The aims of this research project are to identify main corruption risks and typologies of corrupt misconduct in various sports and develop an overview of best practices in promoting integrity, implementing anticorruption compliance management systems and whistleblower hotlines in international and national sports organizations, professional leagues, and clubs.

For the past seven years, CSCF has been at the forefront of protecting sports from potential infiltration. Through its extensive programmes, CSCF has provided comprehensive support in tackling sport manipulation, corruption in sports, safeguarding, doping, and whistleblowing not only to governmental organizations such as law enforcement agencies, judiciaries, and ministries but also to international and national sports organizations. Notably, CSCF 's programmes have been implemented and utilized in over 200 countries worldwide through transnational projects and activities, showcasing their global impact and effectiveness.

ABOUT IACA

The International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) is an international organization and post-secondary educational institution based in Laxenburg, Austria. It has been recognized by the United Nations General Assembly (resolutions A/RES/69/199 and A/RES/71/208, adopted on 18 December 2014 and 19 December 2016, respectively) as a center of excellence in anti-corruption education, training, and research. We advance the goals of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, promote the rule of law, and provide support and technical assistance for states, organizations, corporations, and other stakeholders. Corruption knows no borders, affects all countries and sectors of society, and cannot be remedied with traditional educational methods alone.

This is why our vision is to tackle the scourge of corruption with a new and holistic approach, including academic programmes, capacity building initiatives, technical assistance, research, and international cooperation and networking.

To contact IACA, please email: james.bigila@iaca.int

For more information about IACA, visit – www.iaca.int

 

ABOUT CSCF Sport Integrity Group

The CSCF Sport Integrity Group is an organization that, with a global operational footprint, serves as a dedicated guardian of integrity in sports. CSCF's expertise in sport manipulation, safeguarding, and whistleblowing position the organization at the forefront of preserving sports integrity. Committed to the profound economic, moral, and social dimensions unique to sports, CSCF actively engage with diverse organizations, fostering a world where sports thrive with integrity through fresh initiatives, capacity-building, prevention, reactive measures, and international cooperation.

CSCF's comprehensive services encompass advice, policy development, education, whistleblowing support, risk management, and investigation. Addressing issues proactively, strive to shape the landscape of sports integrity, fortifying the foundation of integrity, fairness, and enduring values upon which the world of sports stands.

To contact CSCF, please email: admin@cscfsport.com

For more information about CSCF, visit – cscfsport.com

 

For media inquiries, please contact: admin@cscfsport.com

Integrisport 3.0 – Awareness raising practical session (ARPS) conducted in Vienna, Austria for law enforcement and judiciary on tackling sport manipulation

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Vienna, Austria – The 3rd ARPS under the IntegriSport 3.0 umbrella was co-organized by CSCF in collaboration with our Austrian partner Play Fair Code, Austria – the National Association for ‘Integrity in Sport’. The event was held in close cooperation with the Austria Ministry of the Interior and the Criminal Intelligence Service Austria at the beautiful venue House of Sports (Haus des Sports) in Vienna, on 4th and 5th December, 2023.

Integrisport 3.0 is a project established to provide theoretical and practical support for law enforcement and judiciaries in the six program countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, Greece, Romania, and Spain, co-financed by the European Union. The ARPS in Vienna was the third event under the present project and the 16th edition under the successful Integrisport program, which has reached nearly two-thirds of EU countries' law enforcement and judiciaries in the last 4.5 years. CSCF is dedicated to fortifying the integrity of sports and as coordinator and content provider for this ARPS, our commitment was further strengthened to develop the capacities of the stakeholders across Europe.


The training event was first of its kind in case of Austria where such a multi-stakeholder cooperation was created and a training event on topics related to sports manipulation and related crimes in sports was imparted to more than 45 investigators from across Austria, from multiple departments of the Criminal Intelligence Service Austria, prosecutors, and judicial officers.

The main goal of the event was to introduce the participants to the key topics related to possible crime in sports, for helping them get aware of the issues, to broaden their knowledge and allow them make connections to their own work with the possible sports manipulation issues, thereby positively contributing towards the preservation of sports integrity and to strengthen their fight against manipulation in sport.

The symposium, i.e., the Awareness Raising Practical Session (ARPS) was part of the IntegriSport 3.0 project and organized by CSCF Foundation for Sports Integrity, the coordinator and content experts of the project, along with Play Fair Code, Austria, the country partners of the project. The event saw more than 30 speakers, presenters and panelists, from Austria and also international experts, from diverse sectors to provide the best possible and most updated knowledge, which would help these police officers and investigators to understand better the multifaceted challenge of sport manipulation.

Among the notable keynote speakers of the event were Friedrich Stickler, President of Play Fair Code and Severin Moritzer, CEO of Play Fair Code, Norbert Rubicsek, Director CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, Ms. Martina Spreitzer-Kropiunik, Vice President Criminal Court Vienna, Johann Fuchs, Chief Public Prosecutor, Vienna, Franz Schwarzenbacher, Head of Unit Betting Fraud, Doping and Pharmaceutical Crime, Federal Criminal Police, Austria, Andreas Baumgartner, Integrity Officer, Austrian Football Federation (ÖFB), Austrian ambassador for IntegriSport 3.0 – Manuel Ortlechner, former player of the Austrian National football team and currently Sporting Director FK Austria Wien and several prominent other speakers from Austrian and international organizations like FIFPRO, ULIS, Malta Police Force, National Police of Spain, Basketball Austria, the European Handball Federation, the Austrian eSport Federation, NADA Austria, Austrian betting operators and several others.


It was interesting to hear Mr. Franz Schwarzenbacher, who emphasized the event's significance, stating, "It was a perfect opportunity for us to spread knowledge, expertise and know-how with our colleagues from all around Austria. Sharing the various investigation approaches is key for both, raising awareness and a robust understanding of the issue.”

Adding to the above, Ms. Barbara Pusca, Head of Sub-Department Training, Knowledge and Information Management, Criminal Intelligence Service Austria said, “Our cooperation with the Play Fair Code is a new approach for us and clearly adds value to our training and education efforts for our colleagues. We saw a series of very interesting presentations and panels with a national and international perspective towards the huge problem of match fixing in the world of sport.”

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the driving strength behind this unique initiative, has consistently championed the cause of sports integrity. CSCF boasts its strength in facilitating the creation of opportunities in sports, for effective and innovative programs and partnerships. CSCF partners with organizations around the world to provide complex and high quality education and training to sport organizations, and law enforcement, judiciaries, ministries, and other such transnational organizations on multiple integrity issues, as well as on effective investigations, whistle blowing systems etc. Our commitment to this noble effort acknowledges the importance of collective action to effectively combat manipulation within the world of sports around the world.


Reinforcing CSCF’s principals, Norbert Rubicsek, CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity ‘s Director, shared his insights, stating, “To combat sports manipulation and crime in sports, it requires complex actions and cooperation from all the involved stakeholders. Sports need support to counteract fixers infiltrating it, and this support should come from law enforcement, judiciaries, as well as other stakeholders in the domain. This is one of the main objectives of the IntegriSport 3.0. project: understanding and supporting each other.”

Play Fair Code CEO, Severin Moritzer noted that: “With a twelve years national and international track record and expertise in the fight against match fixing and for integrity in sport, IntegriSport 3.0 and the training for and with a core group of Police investigators simply is a perfect fit.”

The two-day symposium explored the diverse challenges associated with sports manipulation and crimes within the sports realm, not just of Austria but across Europe and beyond. Additionally, a key aim was to promote collaboration at both national and international levels, acknowledging the necessity for a unified approach to address this global issue. The ARPS marks a significant step forward in the continuous effort to protect the integrity of sports in Austria. As experts and influencers come together, there is a renewed optimism for a future where sports continue to embody fair play and honest competition, inspiring generations to come.

For media inquiries, please contact: admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.